Desmond Castle Newcastlewest Highlights (5)
Let Us Guide You
The OPW guides at the Desmond Banqueting Hall in Newcastle West offer free tours to all visitors. Our friendly, experienced and informative guides will tell thrilling tales about the building’s history and will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Explore the Medieval Milieu
Climb the roughhewn stone stairs and take your time exploring the rooms at the top. Drink deeply of the medieval atmosphere and imagine what life was like for the earls of Desmond, their servants and the soldiers who lived in the castle.
The Banqueting Hall
Visit the fully refurbished medieval banqueting hall to learn all about dining and drinking in medieval Ireland. Check out the oak gallery, from which musicians would provide a soundtrack for the raucous feasting below. Why not have your photo taken in sitting in the Earl of Desmond’s throne?
Intriguing Exhibits
Visit the exhibition area at reception and inspect the many fascinating artefacts on display. Particularly compelling are the objects relating to the 1916 Rising, the War of Independence and the Civil War. These include uniforms belonging to the various military forces who occupied the castle, as well as period photographs and deadly weapons of attack and defence.
Take in the View
Climb to the top of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Newcastle West and the valley in which the town lies.
